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How Clean is Nuclear Energy?

An Evaluation of the Environmental Impacts of Nuclear Power As an Alternative Energy Source

Curriculum created by Joyce Dinglasan-Panlilio, University of Washington Tacoma

Student Assignment

An Argumentative Writing Assignment



Description of Assignment

The search for alternative sources of energy is an important issue currently being faced by the government and our society as a whole. Nuclear energy, the energy harnessed from the splitting of an atom otherwise known as nuclear fission is being used in nuclear power plants to produce electricity. It makes up a small proportion of the energy source for the United States and other countries. Your task is to research the advantages and the environmental impacts of nuclear energy and compare them to those of fossil fuels. You need to clearly evaluate both sources of fuels with regards of their environmental impacts. This assignment requires that you provide strong evidence to support your arguments. You are encouraged to use a variety of sources in gathering supporting data. Below are components of the paper that should be incorporated in your assignment.

Your paper should include the following components:

Introduction:

  • Discuss the current issue of searching for alternative sources of energy
  • Clearly describe how energy is produced from nuclear power and fossil fuels
  • Incorporate fundamental chemistry principles learned in class
  • State a clear thesis or “stand”.
  • Why should readers care about this?

Body of Paper should include a discussion of:

  • The benefits of each forms of energy sources
  • The environmental impacts associated with each energy source (Hint: You will likely find that a major point of contention about nuclear energy is “waste”)
  • Nuclear energy is being used more widely in other countries. How do they do it and why does the US not follow suite?

Supporting Information:

  • A “back of the envelope” calculations comparing amount of waste generated by both fossil fuels and nuclear energy should be included.
  • In your calculations:
  • Compare the amount of waste produced by either energy sources in providing 700,000 kilowatt of power (the average household consumption per month in 2006)
  • Consider carbon emission rates for fossil fuel based power plants and relate that to further environmental impacts.
  • Consider decay rates of nuclear waste and how long these wastes will be around before they can be safely disposed of (if ever).
  • Keep the scope of your discussion to benefits and environmental impacts. (The issue is a broad one and it is easy to get lost in other aspects of the issue ie. cost)
  • As much as you can use specific examples to support your argument.

Conclusion:

  • Summarizes main points of paper.
  • Answers the question: So What?

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